The Abbey Tavern Singers

History

"The story, as outlined by the ARC Records sleeve notes, stated that: "The Abbey Tavern Singers
were formed in 1962 when Mrs. (Minnie) Scott-Lennon of the Abbey Tavern in Howth, Dublin decided
that musicians and balladeers performing in a relaxed sing-along manner would be popular. Within a
short time the newly formed Singers were drawing capacity crowds into the Howth establishment. In
1966 a solid Irish rouser "We're Off To Dublin In The Green" featuring the singers was released on TV
as a beer commercial. This ad created by Carling Breweries Ltd. increased the group's popularity many
times over and indeed in Canada listening to the Abbey Tavern Singers fast became the new national
past-time. This song-come-jingle was then released on record by the Singers and became an international
hit. Shortly thereafter the Abbey Tavern Singers toured North America and charmed the continent."